Dining Out with Kids: The Real Difference Between Kid-Friendly and Kid-Allowed Restaurants

Let’s be honest, taking kids out to eat is an adventure.

Sometimes it’s a sweet family memory with pancakes and smiles…

and sometimes it’s you wrestling a toddler under the table while your food gets cold.

One of the biggest game changers?

Knowing the difference between a kid-friendly restaurant and a place that just happens to allow kids.

Kid-Friendly: The Dream Scenario

You walk in and there are high chairs already stacked in the corner.

The server immediately offers crayons and a coloring sheet.

There’s a kids’ menu with food your child will actually eat — and it’s not $18.

Restrooms have changing tables in both the women’s and the men’s room.

Nobody bats an eye when your toddler decides to sing loudly about dinosaurs.

That’s kid-friendly. These places are set up for families, and it shows.

Kid-Allowed: Proceed with Caution

Then there’s the other kind of place — the “we allow kids” spot.

Sure, they won’t turn you away, but…

No kids’ menu (your four-year-old will be staring down a full rack of ribs).

No high chairs or booster seats (hope you brought your own).

No changing tables (hello, car seat diaper change).

The vibe is way more date night or sports bar than Saturday brunch.

These places can still work — but you need to go in prepared.

The Parent Survival Kit

If you’re heading somewhere that’s not fully set up for little ones, trust me on this:

Bring snacks for the wait.

Pack your own booster/highchair if your kid can’t sit in a regular chair yet.

(Here's one that we love)

Entertainment is key — small toys, coloring, or a tablet with headphones.

(These toys were and still are a life saver!)

Have a bathroom plan — no changing table? You’ll need a backup spot.

(Try using this next time)

Time it right — early dinner beats the Friday night rush every time.

The Honest Truth

A kid-friendly place will make your life easier. The staff gets it, the setup works, and you can breathe a little.

A kid-allowed place? That’s more like running a mini obstacle course with your meal as the prize. Still doable — but only if you’re prepared and keep expectations in check.

Either way, you can have a great meal out with your kids. Just know what you’re walking into… and maybe keep dessert as a bribe for good behavior.

For more tips and recipes, visit www.thedrinkerschoiceclub.com — it’s more than drinks, it’s an experience!

-THE DRINKERS CHOICE CLUB